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Gandikota Fort is derived from the two Telugu words “ Gandi” which means Gorge and “Kota” which means Fort and thus is also called Gorge Fort. The fort is located on the banks of the Pennar River in Andhra Pradesh. Over centuries, Gandikota witnessed the rule of various empires starting from the Chalukyas. Though in ruins now, the fort has been used as a strategic location since the 13th century. Let’s delve right into the details of Gandikota fort history, its features, facts and more information about the fort.
Table of Contents
| Commissioned by | Kapa Raja |
| Also Known as | Grand Canyon of India |
| Location | Kadapa district; Andhra Pradesh |
| Timings | 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; Open Everyday |
| Entry Fee for fort | Free Entry |
| Camera | Allowed and Free |
History of Gandikota Fort
Starting with Kapa Raja in 1123, it saw the rise and fall of kingdoms until the Vijayanagara Empire’s formation. With numerous invasions and wars, the fort went through any hands of control. Here is a timeline of the various rulers who ruled over the fort and marked their names in the chapters of the history of Gandikota Fort.
- 1123 AD: Captivated by the breathtaking scenery and divine visions, Chief Kapa Raja, under the Western Chalukya king, laid the foundation for the Gandikota fort.
- 1309 AD: The fort faced its first major challenge with an invasion by the Muhammedans.
- 1336 AD: The newly established Kingdom of Vijayanagar takes control of Gandikota by Harihara and Bukkarayalu.
- 1352-1557 AD: The fort witnesses a period of relative stability under various rulers, including Bukka I, Harihara Bukkaraju, Kaka Maharaju, Krishnarayalu, and the Nandyala Timmayadeva dynasty.
- 1574-1649 AD: The fort changed hands several times, experiencing the rule of Narasimharaju, Nandyala Krishnamaraju, and Sri Ranga III before facing an attack by Mir Jumla in 1649.
- 1649-1790 AD: Gandikota Fort underwent numerous rulers which included Fakir Khan, Nek Nam Khan, and Md. Nabi Khan, Abdullah Nabi Khan, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, and the Nizam of Hyderabad.
- 1800 AD: Gandikota finally fell under the control of the East India Company, marking the end of an era for the historic fort.
Features of Gandikota Fort
Every ruler that had reigns marked the walls of the fort with their architectural styles. The fort is known for its impressive architectural design, with massive stone walls, intricate carvings, and well-planned defence structures.
- It houses several notable structures, including the Ranganatha Swamy and Madhava Swamy Temples from the 15th and 16th centuries.
- Jama Masjid and a large Granary used for stocking food during tough times are some structures, each showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles.
- The fort also boasts moats, bastions, a Pigeon tower known as Gandikota Charminar and metal spike gates.
- There also exits a Jail inside the fort along with water reservoirs and tanks to reserve water.
- Apart from these structures, now in shambles, some other features include Rani Mahla, Gun Foundry and Talim Khana.
- One of the highlights of Gandikota Fort is the stunning Gorge Viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the rugged terrain and the winding Pennar River below.
Also Read – Aguada Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More
Interesting Facts about Gandikota Fort
- Gandikota Fort is sometimes also referred to as the “Grand Canyon of India” due to its resemblance to the famous geological wonder in the United States.
- The fort has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.
- French traveller Tavernier named the fort 2nd Humpy.
Also Read – Lohagad Fort History: Features, Facts, Timing & More
Timings of Gandikota Fort
The timings for visiting the Monument and watching the mesmerising views are as –
| Purpose | Timings |
| Entry | 8:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Week Entry | Everyday |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Camera | Free |
Located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, Gandikota Fort is surrounded by its picturesque beauty. Most of the walls of the fort have either collapsed or vanished with time, but the historical facts show the stronghold with which the fort stood over the years.
Other Attractions near Gandikota Fort
| Mylavaram Dam | Penna River Gorge |
| Gooty European Cemetry | Gooty Fort |
| Owk Reservoir | Belum Caves |
| Yaganti Temple | Kurnool Fort |
| Gandikota reservoir | Orvakallu Rock Garden |
Relevant Blogs
That’s all about Gandikota Fort history! If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our general knowledge page! Alternatively, you can also read our blog on general knowledge for competitive exams!